As seen on social media, French parenting is labeled as better than American parenting. Memes about French mothers and how they can set their child straight is all over the internet. If you have traveled enough, you will also notice just how well-behaved French children are compared to American children. So what is their secret? And what is the difference between French parenting and American parenting?
The French parenting guide
Unlike American parents, French parents do not make their children their first priority. They do not drop everything that they've built as a professional, as a woman and as a wife after having a child. They also do not believe in helicopter parenting, which is what most American parents are guilty of doing.
As soon as their child is born, they set limits on how much they can take care of their child because they know that their own well-being will reflect on their child's well-being. For example, if they breastfeed their child and they suffer a swollen or cracked nipple, they move on to feeding their child using a bottle.
Once their child is two or three months old, they are left to sleep in the dark throughout the night so that parents can get proper rest. If they cry in the middle of the night, they are usually left to comfort themselves because they believe it can teach the child independence.
French children do not usually eat snacks in between meals, which is why when it is time for them to eat with the family, they do not protest or throw a fit because they are used to having a schedule and they are taught about delayed gratification.
Unlike American parents, French parents do not back down when their children starts talking back to them. Although they do not punish their child, what they do is to educate them in a loving manner and make them understand that no means no. French parents also make time for each other at night, which is why they let their children sleep as early as 7pm and they let them know that the evenings are for the adults and children can preoccupy themselves in their room.
According to Pamela Druckerman, an American author of the book French Children Don't Throw Food, her French friend taught her that being a good parent does not mean that you should be in the constant service of your children and abandon everything in your personal life.
What can we learn from French parents?
American parents are scared to leave their child on their own, but in reality it can be a good thing. A child's happiness, success and self-esteem does not come from you hovering around them all the time. The best way for a child to learn, develop and mature is by committing mistakes and failures. It is best to let children know that the fate of their lives is in their own hands, and they are the ones who will shape their future. Let your child be independent, but still be there for guidance, reassurance and comfort.
